Monteselva St. Angelum Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2017

Unveiling the Depths of Abruzzo: A Tasting Guide to Monteselva St. Angelum Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

The Monteselva St. Angelum Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a captivating red wine produced in the heart of Abruzzo, Italy. Crafted from the region's signature Montepulciano grape, this wine boasts a bold character and an enticing bouquet, waiting to be explored by discerning palates.

A Feast for the Eyes: Colour and Clarity

Swirl the Monteselva St. Angelum in your glass and admire its deep ruby core, flecked with alluring purple highlights. This richness in colour is a telltale sign of a full-bodied and flavourful experience to come. The wine exhibits excellent clarity, free from sediment, indicating careful winemaking practices.

An Aromatic Journey: Unveiling the Bouquet

On the nose, the St. Angelum unfolds with a complex and inviting perfume. Dominant aromas of black cherry and ripe plum take centre stage, mingling harmoniously with hints of spice like black pepper and clove. Subtle earthiness adds a touch of rustic charm, while delicate floral notes of violets peek through, creating a well-rounded and intriguing aromatic tapestry.

A Symphony on the Palate: Flavour Profile and Structure

The first sip of St. Angelum is a burst of flavour. Full-bodied and brimming with character, the wine explodes with a medley of dark fruits. Think juicy damsons, plump blackberries, and tangy blackcurrants, all underpinned by a pleasant tannic structure. These tannins are noticeable but well-integrated, providing a satisfying grip on the palate without becoming overbearing. Hints of vanilla emerge on the mid-palate, adding a touch of warmth and complexity. The finish is lingering, leaving a pleasant echo of dark fruit and spice.

Serving Suggestions: Bringing Out the Best

To fully appreciate the depth of flavour in Monteselva St. Angelum, it's best served slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes can further soften the tannins and enhance the aromatic profile.

Food Pairings: A Culinary Symphony

The bold character and fruit-forward nature of St. Angelum make it a versatile food pairing partner. Here are some suggested pairings to create a harmonious dining experience:

• Rich Tomato Sauces: St. Angelum pairs beautifully with robust tomato-based pasta dishes like lasagna, spaghetti Bolognese, or rich meat ragù. The acidity in the tomato sauce cuts through the wine's richness, while the fruit flavours complement the savoury notes.
• Grilled Meats: The tannins in St. Angelum stand up well to grilled meats like steaks, lamb chops, or sausages. The smoky and charred flavours of the grill are balanced by the wine's fruitiness, creating a mouthwatering combination.
• Hard Cheeses: Enjoy St. Angelum alongside aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, or mature cheddar. The cheese's creaminess complements the wine's tannins, while the salty notes enhance the wine's fruit flavours.
• Hearty Vegetarian Dishes: Don't neglect vegetarian pairings! St. Angelum pairs well with mushroom risotto, lentil stews, or herb-roasted vegetables. The earthy and savoury notes in these dishes find a delightful counterpoint in the wine's fruitiness.

Beyond the Bottle: Additional Enjoyment Tips

While St. Angelum shines on its own, there are additional ways to enhance the experience:

• Cigar Pairing: For cigar aficionados, consider pairing St. Angelum with a medium-bodied cigar. The chocolatey and earthy notes in the cigar complement the wine's fruit and spice, creating a complex and satisfying combination.
• Post-Dinner Enjoyment: St. Angelum can also be enjoyed as a contemplative after-dinner drink. The lingering finish and depth of flavour make it a perfect companion for savouring the end of a meal.

In Conclusion: A Must-Try Abruzzo Gem

Monteselva St. Angelum Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a captivating red wine that showcases the best of Abruzzo's winemaking tradition. Its bold character, inviting bouquet, and well-integrated tannins make it a delight for wine lovers of all experience levels. With its versatility in food pairings and additional enjoyment options, St. Angelum promises to be a welcome addition to any table.

Order your bottle of Monteselva St. Angelum Montepulciano d'Abruzzo today at The General Wine Company and embark on a delightful journey through the heart of Abruzzo!